What is hypnosis?

A state of relaxation and/or a level of concentration that the average individual reaches daily. Self-hypnosis is accomplished most often when one is “absorbed” in a TV program, experiencing repetition (like highway driving), or daydreaming. Hypnosis is a form of guided relaxation using concentration where the ideas expressed (suggestions) by the hypnotherapist are generally experienced more clearly, which in turn creates a new awareness. Depending on one’s motivations there may be a shift in attitude about specific subject matters (habits and stresses). The only requirement for getting therapeutic results is that the person has a conscious desire to change, or in other words, agrees with the suggestions.

Do people do things under hypnosis that are against their morals or values?

No. Hypnosis cannot detach the ego. As a general rule, if a client were given a suggestion that he or she did not agree with, he or she would simply refuse, laugh at it, or awaken (regain normal awareness). In stage hypnosis, the volunteers are usually under the influence of alcohol and have come to the show for the purpose of relaxing, acting silly and having a good time, therefore they are easily encouraged to do so. Because inhibitions are often reduced under hypnosis the subject is more likely to experience their inner character traits and motivations.

Is a hypnotherapist the same as other mental health professionals?

No. Psychologists, psychiatrists, and certified mental health therapists perform a different type of service relating directly to psychology. These professionals may utilize a form of hypnosis in their practice. Transpersonal hypnotherapy is about healing from within, utilizing spiritual modalities to work through challenges. Hypnotherapists cannot diagnose any mental health issue nor provide any psychological advice.

Can a person’s memory be erased?

No. If one undergoing hypnosis wants to remember, he or she will. In same cases, if the client wants to forget something, amnesia can be produced with a post-hypnotic suggestion, but it wears off as quickly as the subject wishes. A certified hypnotherapist can help a person transform a memory, which may be causing problems. The mind contains unconscious memories, which generally are responsible for our decisions, attitudes, feelings, and behaviors.

Can everyone be hypnotized?

Yes, provided one has normal physiological and psychological functioning and therefore the ability to concentrate and/or relax. As long as a normal human being is willing, he or she may undergo hypnosis. Insusceptible people are simply not willing. There is a positive correlation between one’s willingness to relax and concentrate and the ability to undergo hypnosis.

Do people under hypnosis go to sleep or become unconscious?

No. One should not expect to go to sleep. Hypnosis is a hyper-state of awareness that feels very relaxing. One is completely aware of everything that is occurring in the surrounding environment as well as that which is happening in the inner mind. Hypnosis is a state of consciousness located somewhere between awake and asleep. Some fatigued people may go out of hypnosis by falling into natural sleep, simply because they were tired, but then they may need to be awakened; if a person is trying to recall a memory under hypnosis, they cannot do so while sleeping. On the other hand, if a person is listening to a clinical session and falls out of hypnosis into sleep, the suggestions will likely still be effective.

What can be treated with hypnosis?

A qualified clinical hypnotherapist has the capabilities to help alleviate or transform a multitude of symptoms and problems. Many hypnotherapists carry credentials in other professional fields and therefore utilize hypnosis within the context of their specialty areas. Hypnosis sessions can be used to facilitate emotional healing as well as habit-forming and habit-breaking.

Can I see if hypnosis is right for me?

Yes! At the top of this page, there is a link to Spotify which has sessions that you can listen to for free. This allows you the opportunity to see how hypnosis works as well as to get used to my voice.

What agency are you certified with? Who are you insured by?

I have my transpersonal hypnotherapy certification for both clinical and regression sessions through the National Association of Transpersonal Hypnotherapists (nath.world). I am insured by Energy Medicine Professional Association (energymedicineprofessionalassociation.com).